Ayurvedic Psychotherapy - Uncrypted PDF
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy - Uncrypted PDF
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy - Uncrypted PDF
AYURVEDIC PSYCHOTHERAPY
(MANAS ROGA CHIKITSA)
By --
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Ayurvedic Psychotherapy
Contents
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Chpater 1
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upaveda /sub branch) describes this branch in details, of which some part is
mentioned in ayurvedic scripts.
1)Physical(Sharir)diseases,
2) Psychological (manasika) diseases.
Mental disorders affect physical body and physical disorders affects mind
also. However mental disorders first affects mind and then affects physical
body and vice versa.
The terms like Sukham, and Dukkham are perceived by Mind or Manas
only. It shows prime importance of this factor and therefore, we cannot
really understand Ayurveda without looking at its view of the Manas.
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Person is healthy whose –Dosha, dhatu and agni are in balanced state and
whose atman (soul), mind, subjects of senses are in blissful state.
10) Kathopanishad nicely describes the role of each component in ones life.
To understand the relationship between Atman (Soul), Manas (Mind),
Buddhi (Intelligence) Indriyas (Sense organs), one should look at the
following similarity -
Our body is Ratha (chariot), in which Atman (Soul) is the King in chariot.
Mind is very unstable, and hence it is very difficult to control the same.
Psychological disorders being related to Manas are therefore very difficult to
treat and from social point of view it is very disturbing to the affected
person, his/her family and in turn society.
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Definition of Mind: 5
The entity by which one can perceive happiness etc. subjects is mind.
Qualities of Mind -
Sattva is like an illumination for intellect and is virtuous for body and mind.
It enriches human being with Sukha (pleasures) and knowledge.
Doshas of Mind 7
Rajas and Tamas are two qualities of mind which when aggravated can
create psychological diseases.
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For perceiving any type of knowledge the link must be established between
the object and the mind. When this knowledge is sent to the brain then only
the proper action takes place. 8.
Indriyartha (Object)
Kriya (Action)
Being involved in both sensory and motor pathway, Mind is also termed as
Indriya-organ and since it connects sense organs and motor organs it is
called as Ubhayatmak Indriya.
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just the place where these imbalances get lodged, manifest or cause diseases.
Mahabhoot / Great
Element Guna
Prithvi / Earth Tamas
Sattva +
Aap / Water Tamas
Sattva +
Tej / Fire Rajas
Vayu / Air Rajas
Akash / Space Sattva
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Psychological Constitution
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are angry, jealous, and ambitious. They have a fear of failure, are subject to
stress, and soon lose their mental energy. They are loving, calm and patient
only as long as their self interests are served. They are good, loving, friendly
and faithful only to those who are helpful to them. Their activities are self-
centered.
Constitutional Analysis
Sattvic Rajasic Tamasic
My diet is vegetarian some meat lots of meat
I use drugs, alcohol, stimulants never occasionally frequently
My sensory impressions and my calm, pure mixed disturbed
thinking are
My need for sleep is low moderate high
My sexual activity is low moderate high
My control of the senses is good moderate weak
My speech is calm & agitated dull & sluggish
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peaceful
My level of cleanliness is high moderate low
In my work I am selfless ambitious for lazy
personal goals
I feel angry rarely sometimes frequently
I feel fear rarely sometimes frequently
I feel desire little some much
I feel pride modest some A lot
I feel depressed never sometimes frequently
I feel love universal love personal love lacking in love
I express violent behaviour never sometimes frequently
I am attached to money little some A lot
I feel contented usually partly never
I forgive easily with effort hold long term
grudges
My concentration is good moderate poor
My memory is good moderate poor
My will power is strong variable weak
I am truthful always most of the time rarely
I am honest always most of the time rarely
I have peace of mind generally partly rarely
My creativity is high moderate low
I engage in spiritual study daily occasionally never
I use mantra or prayer daily occasionally never
I meditate daily occasionally never
I provide service much some none
TOTAL
Sattvic
Rajasic
Tamasic
Sattvic Pleasure: 9
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Rajasik Pleasure: 10
Rajasic pleasures enjoyed through senses appear as nector in the beginning,
but they turn to poison in the end. Those are rajasik pleasures.
Tamasik Pleasure: 11
Tamasika pleasures deludes a person in the beginning and in the end too. It
comes from nidra, laziness and confusion.
Size of Mind
Mind is atomic (Anu) in size. This is the reason it travels in all body and
fuses with senses to get knowledge.
Location of Mind
Mind has various faculties and centers. There is good anology for the same -
A king, though the whole kingdom belongs to him, has got special places for
his residence. He has got a splendid palace in the capital and another
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Manovaha Srotas
Manovaha srotas (channel) is located all over the body as mind functions
and always travels all over the body. All srotasas are of mind also.
1. Asatmyendriyartha Samyoga -
This means improper contact of sense organs with their objects (including
mind). This can be of three typed- less contact, perverted contact and excess
contact.
This applies to mind also e.g.
E.g. Veecharya/Analysis:
Absence of analysis of any subject leads to inactivity and may lead to
depressive symptoms
Excess analyzing leads to anxiety
Improper analysis leads to improper behaviour and act.
2. Pradnyaparadha -
This means nistaken intellect.
Definition -13
Prajya is dhee (Buddhi / Cosmic intelligence), dhruti and smruti. When there
are abnormalities in these, which results in Pragyaparadha.
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3. Parinama / Kala –
Changes in day and night, seasons etc. affect body as well as mind.
Abnormal changes can aggravate various physical and psychological doshas
and create diseases. In Unmaad / Schizophrenia psychological doshas gets
vitiated at certain period, e.g. No Moon light, Full Moon light days etc.
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Psychological urges like anger, lust should be restrained. When these are not
controlled they become important causes of many psychological disorders.
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Kama / Lust
To achieve the pleasure by getting the objects through various sense and
motor organs is known as lust. Excessive lust causes Vata vitiation. Kama
(kust) and krodha (anger) both originate from Rajas (Bhavad Gita).
Krodha / Anger
When something happens against his/her desire/wish, anger is manifested. It
leads to hatred. Analysing power of good and bad diminishes and causes
Pitta vitiation.
Lobha / Greed
The person tries to get the desired thing which belongs to other person. This
leads to vitiation of Kapha dosha.
Moha / Delusion
Extreme affection towards any thing or any individual. When he/she gets
separated from such thing or individual, he/she becomes sad. This causes
Vata vitiation.
Irsha / jealousy
When someone gets intolerant about other persons wealth, progress etc. it is
called as jealousy. This causes Pitta vitiation.
Ego
Self qualities are supposed to be best than that of others. It vitiates Pitta.
Dambha / Haughtiness
Overbearing pride evidenced by a superior manner toward inferiors. It
vitiates Pitta.
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Shoka / Grief
When someone looses any person or thing which is very lovable to him then
the grief is caused. It vitiates Vata dosha.
Bhaya / Fear
Fear of any person or thing. Excess fear also causes Vata vitiation.
Dainya / Depression
It is miserable state of mind. Depression in early stages vitiates Vata and in
later stages vitiates Kapha also.
Matsarya / Envy
Hatred or envy causes Pitta vitiation.
Udvega (neurosis)
When you don’t get any instant solution you get frusted and if this happens
constantly, neurosis sets in. Neurosis causes Vata vitiation.
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Dvesha –Hatred
Vishada – Depression
Dainya – Miserable state
Krodha -Anger
Depression
Iccha -Desire
Matsarya -Envy
Lobha -Greed
Chinta -Worry
Anxiety
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Pain of any type first imbalances Vata, so pain management of any type will
involve a strong component of anti-Vata considerations. Stress also tends to
first imbalance Vata; so much of stress relief is anti-Vata in scope and
orienation.
Vata is most important dosha in our body. Without vata other 2 doshas, pitta
and kapha are unable to perform their function/pangu. 15
Yet the other two doshas have their own key psychological components and
considerations as well. Each patient will have a particularly psychological as
well as physical constitution that we must be able to understand in order to
arrive at an effective treatment plan. 17
Pathogenesis –
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Thinking of pleasure
Anger/Krodha
Delusion / Sammoha
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Destruction
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2. Details of his relation with all the family members, his sexual relations
with the wife, his relations with friends, his social habits and his addictions
all should be noted.
Common Symptoms -
Kapha: Excess sleep, Day sleep, Day dream, Attached to past, Dull and
lethargic, Low drive/motivation, Dependent, Childish desire to be cared for.
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Treatment
Rational Therapy -
1. Shodhana -Purification
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Basti -As psychological disorders are closely related to “Vata” dosha, this
specific Panchakarma procedure is very important. In these patients, first
Basti is given and then Niruha/decoction basti is given. It is followed by
alternate anuvasan/oil basti and niruha/decoction basti. Sesame oil and
Dashamoola decoction are used for these basti.
Shirobasti -Medhya oil such as brahmi oil or Amalaki oil is poured in the
cap put on head of the patient. It is kept about 30-45 minutes on head. This
procedure is best for stabilization of mind and buddhi.
2) Shamana -Pacification
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Medhya Rasayana -
1. Calamus / Vacha
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2. Brahmi
Brahmi acts as a powerful brain food, and is known for its ability to enhance
mind power (Medhya effect). It supports and improves all aspects of mental
functioning, including comprehension (Dhi), memory (Dhriti) and
recollection (Smriti). It is important because it also enhances the crucial
coordination of these three aspects of mental functioning. Growing
commonly in the Himalayas, it is used by yogis as food for meditation. It
awakens crown chakra and helps to balance ida and pingala.
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4. Jatamansi -
Rasa (Taste): bitter, astringent, sweet. Virya (Energy)- cold, Vipaka (Post-
Digestive Action) – sweet, Guna (Qualities): light, oily, penetrating.
Prabhava (Special Potency) - Medhya
Only found at high altitudes (from 10,000 to 17,000 feet) in India, Bhutan,
and Sikkim.
Best herb to combat the effects of day-to-day stress. It has the property of
enhancing the body's innate ability to sleep well.
5. Ashwagandha -
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Ashwagandha has many significant benefits, but is best known for its
powerful adaptogenic properties, meaning that it helps mind and body adapt
better to stress. It nourishes the nerves and improves nerve function to help
you maintain calm during stressful situations. It is a powerful Rasayana,
meaning that it acts as an overall tonic for greater vitality and longevity. It
nourishes all the bodily tissues (Dhatus), including the joints and nerves. It is
also a powerful Medhya Rasayana, which means that it enhances all three
aspects of mind power (Dhi -- comprehension; Dhriti -- memory; and Smriti
-- recollection).
6. Shankhapushpi
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7. Amalaki
Rasa (Taste) - Five tastes excluding salty. Virya (Energy) - Cold. Vipaka
(Post-Digestive Action) - Sweet. Guna (Qualities) - Light.
8. Jyotishmati
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Tulasi is one of the most sacred plant. Its quality is pure sattva. It is sacred to
Vishnu and lord Krishna.To reduce the malefic effects, plant Tulsi in the
house at entrance. Tulsi has holy vibrations and takes care of many illnesses.
While all plants take in corbon dioxide and exhale oxygen, Tulsi is believed
to exhale ozone, more active oxygen. Indian cow likes sunlight, Tulsi also
flourishes in sunlight. Nature produces strongest wide spectrum medicinal
herbs when herbs exploit sunlight for their growth.
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Rasa (Taste) -Bitter, sweet, astringent. Virya (Energy)- Cold, Vipaka (Post-
Digestive Action): Pungent, Guna (Qualities): light and dry.
Dhatu Affinity (Tissues Entered) - rasa, rakta, mamsa, majja, Plant Part
Used - wood, bark. Volatile oil.
Sandalwood cools and calms entire body and mind too. Few drops of
sandalwood oil applied on third eye will relieve heat. Sandalwood helps
awakening intelligence. It also helps to open third eye, to increase devotion
and promote meditation. It also aids in transmutation of sexual energy.
11. Tagar -
Dhatu Affinity (Tissues Entered): majja, nervous system Plant Part Used:
whole plant. It is one of the best herbs for vata generated mind disorders. It
clears nerve channels of accumulated vata. Owing to large amount of earth
element, it is grounding and helps unstable disorders like vertigo, fainting,
hysteria etc.
12. Yashtimadhu
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13. Shatavari
1. Abhrak bhasma (Mica ash) -Pacifies Vata and Kapha. Best tonic to
Manas. It boosts immunity and mental strength.
2. Suvarna bhasma -It is sweet, astringent, oily in nature and cool (Sheet)
inpotency. It is one of the best detoxifier and acts on smruti, Pragya of the
manas. Best cardiotonic (location of mind) and pitta, vata pacifier.
3. Roupya bhasma (Silver ash) -Best intellect booster and regulates function
of Sadhak pitta. Best Vata and Pitta pacifier.
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2. Lashunadi Ghee -Ghee processed in Garlic, Trikatu, Hirda, cow milk etc.
It also can be used for Nasya.
6. Panchagavya Ghee -Cow Ghee processed in cow milk, cow urine, cow
dung, cow yoghurt. Indications: Apasmaara, Unmaada, Dose: 10gm.
Anupana: Warm milk, warm water.
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14. Vasantkusumakar rasa -Best tonic and gives strength to all tissues and
mans.
16. Saraswatarishtam
Medicated wine made up of Gotu kola, asparagus, haritaki, ginger, fennel,
gold etc. it is best mind rejuvenator, memory enhancer and antistress tonic.
Indications -Manas doshas, shukra dosha, Apasmaar. Anupana-Water. Dose:
12-14ml
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18. Brahmi taila- This medicated oil contains brahmi, amalaki and sesame
oil. This can be used for external application, shirodhara etc this oil can be
used.
Medhya Rasayana
Functions of Rasayana
A) Adaptogenic
B) Neurotic
C) Immunomodulators
D) Anti oxidant
E) Anabolic
F) Psychotropic
Improves appetite
Improves power of digestion
Free the channels in the body
Makes proper flow of plasma
Reduces unwanted waste
Increases essential part
Produces quality tissues
Promote healthy life
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Medhya Rasayana –
When it acts on Cognition, can be labeled as "Neurotropic" .When it acts on
Mind, can be labeled as "Psychotropic" and when it acts on "Behavioural
aspect", it is labeled as both Psychotropic as well as Neurotropic.
Neurotropics -
1. Stimulants -
MR - Mental Retardation
LD - Learning Disability.
Dementias
2. Depressants:
ADHD
Psychotropics -
1.Stimulants -
Autism
Depression
2.Depressants -
ADHD
Anxiety
Classification of herbs -
Stimulants
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Depressants / Pacifers
Herbs having soothing/pacifying effect on mind and intellect. These are –
Mandukparni, Brahmi, Yashtimadhu, Shatavari, Jatamansi, Chandan,
Amalaki.
These herbs play vital role in conditions like –Anxiety, Hyperactivity and
impulsivity in ADHD, Alzimers disease, Maniac phase of bipolar disorder
and Schizophrenia.
Herbalized oil massage is used in treatments to aid the cleansing process and
pacifying Vata as well.
Herbalized oil massage provides a deeply soothing and balancing effect for
the entire physiology. The motion of massage creates heat and friction which
enhance circulation and help cleanse affected tissues of chemical impurities
that could be causing symptoms of psychological disorders. The oil and
herbs cleanse and nourish the tissues to aid their repair and development.
The various herbs that have been boiled into base oil, and the oil itself, are
specifically chosen for their effect on removing the imbalances at the basis
of your condition. Sesame oil, coconut oil and mustard oils are best base
oils for vata, pitta and kapha type respectively.
The oil helps the balancing process by allowing the herbs to more deeply
penetrate the affected tissues. By entering into deep tissues, it helps to pacify
vata.
Diet
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Food you eat is either sattvic, rajasic or tamasic according to its character
and effect upon the body and the mind. One can find out the nature or
temperament of a man from the nature of the food he prefers.
Sattvic food
Sattvic food is always freshly cooked and simple, juicy, It is light, unctuous,
nourishing, sweet and tasty. It increases the energy of the mind and produces
cheerfulness, serenity and mental clarity. Sattvic food is highly conducive to
good health.
Milk, butter, ghee (clarified butter) fresh buttermilk, fresh ripe fruits as
pomegranate, apple, bnana, oranges, grapes etc., almonds, dates, moong
(green gram) sprouts, barley, wheat, cereals, fresh green vegetables like
spinach, green beans, tomatoes, parwar(bitter gourd), karela, plantains etc.,
are sattvic.The spices commonly used in sattvic cooking are turmeric,
ginger, cinnamon, coriander, fennel (saunf) and cardamom.
Rajasic food
This food is fresh but heavy. It includes non-vegetarian food like meat, fish,
eggs, and chicken, all whole pulses and dals (not sprouted), hot spices like
chillies, pepper and all vegetables including onion and garlic. The rajasic
diet is also cooked fresh and is nutritious. It may contain a little more oil and
spices compared to sattvic food. It benefits those who believe in action and
aggression in a positive way such as business persons, politicians, and
athletes.
Rajasic foods are bitter, sour, salty, pungent, hot and dry. ketchup’s, vinegar,
wines, pickles, pungent condiments, sweets, fried bread, curd, egg plant,
carrots, urad (black gram), onions, garlic, lemon, masur (red gram), tea,
coffee, betel leaves, tobacco are rajasic articles of food.
They are interested in the four P's - power, prestige, position and prosperity.
But they are quite in control of their lives and aren’t obsessed by any of the
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above. They are go-getters and know how to enjoy life.The rajasic man
always plans to prepare various kinds of preparations to satisfy his palate.
The palate remains unsatisfied until the stomach is completely filled with
pungent things and till the tongue is burnt with chillies.
Tamasic food
This includes foods that are not fresh, overcooked, stale and processed —
foods made from refined flour (maida), pastries, pizzas, burgers, chocolates,
soft drinks, rumali roti, naan, alcohol, canned and preserved foods like jams,
pickles and fermented foods, over fried foods, sweets made from sugar, ice
creams, puddings and most ‘fun foods’ are included in this list. All spicy,
salty, sweet and fatty foods form part of the tamasic diet. Beef, fish, eggs,
wine, garlic, onions and tobacco are tamasic foodstuffs.
Exercise
Ayurveda recommends that the exercise should be done to the extent of half
of the body strength. Thus Ayurvedic recommendation is to never exert
more than 50% of your capacity. This amount will differ from person to
person, depending on body type, age and overall health. The symptoms are
when the sweat starts to form on your nose, forehead or under the arms.
Another sign is when a person no longer breathes through the nose.
Breathing through the nose is recommended for ayurvedic exercise. This is
the time when you should stop your exercise. If one follows this one
guideline, will always feel energized by exercise instead of exhausted. And
each day, you will find that your capacity increases to exercise more
intensely or for a longer duration. Very naturally you will be able to handle
more exercise without ever straining.
Vedic exercise, such as Yoga and Sun Salutes, are the most highly regarded
forms of exercise because they rejuvenate and purify the body at a subtle
level. Walking is also an excellent form of exercise for almost anyone, and is
gentle enough for Vata types. Swimming is ideal for Pitta types, and most
Kapha types have a greater capacity for longer and more intense exercise.
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Ayurvedic psychotherapy -
Achara Rasayana
Sadvritta
Eat a light, nutritious breakfast. Digestive power is not very strong in the
morning.
Work or study according to your dharma, meaning activity that is enjoyable
and life supporting for you
Lunch should be the biggest meal of the day because your digestion is
strongest then. Diet should be balanced according to your constitutional
type. It's important to eat sitting down and pay attention to the food with all
your senses.
Work according to your dharma.
Practice yogasanas, pranayama and meditation before the evening meal.
Supper should be lighter than lunch so that your body can digest it
completely before you go to bed. Then your body can use its nighttime
digestive power to get rid of impurities while you sleep.
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Yoga
In Yoga terminology, chitta is often a general term for the mind as a whole,
with manas standing for the sensory mind. In Vedantic terminology, manas
more commonly assume the role of the mind as a whole, with chitta meaning
the memory bank.
Generally, chitta is the general field of mental disturbances (vrittis or kleshas
of Yoga) that need to be calmed or removed. Buddhi is the higher
discriminating intelligence that we must develop in order to remove these
disturbances and gain such peace of mind. It is the outer mental and sensory
activity that keeps these disturbances in motion and needs to be controlled.
Ahamkara is the factor of ego or self-will which keeps this process in
motion. This means that ways of calming the chitta, developing the buddhi,
controlling the manas and reducing ahamkara is essential
The mind is the power of knowledge (jnana-shakti) and the prana is the
power of action (prana-shakti). Classical Yoga as described in the Yoga
Sutras of Patanjali and in the Bhagavad Gita is for making the mind calm
and quiet. By this way one can get rid of psychological disorders.
Ayurveda’s psychological therapy of increasing sattva is mainly a yoga
therapy. Classical Yoga itself is mainly a psychology. This means that
Ayurvedic psychology must employ the tools and views of Yoga.
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Pranayama
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Five types of prana are responsible for various pranic activities in the body;
they are Prana, Apana, Vyan, Udana & Samana. Out of these Prana and
Apana are most important. Prana is upward flowing and Apana is downward
flowing. Practice of Pranayama achieves the balance in the activities of these
pranas, which results in healthy body and mind.
Pranayama or control of breath checks the velocity of the mind and reduces
the quantity of thinking. It removes the dross (impurities) in the form of
Rajas and Tamas from the mind.
Dhyana –Meditation -
Once you have achieved this for specific period of time you can try for the
'Dhyan'.
To explain with Omkar as the target, we have been looking at it, reciting and
listening the mantra, our mind stays (appeases) upon it for a specific amount
of time. Then further we close our eyes and recollect the picture of the OM
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At the same time we are reciting or listening to the omkar. Then again with
closed eyes we are only hearing the reciting of the mantra on the cassette
without reciting by our mouth. Further our mind only recollects the
experiences taken by our eyes, ears and mouth. The actual Dhyan stage has
only one dimension, now we concentrate on only a part of our target
Meditation Technique
Introduction -As the name suggests this is a very simple and easy technique
of meditation, which can be followed by anyone irrespective of age, sex and
physical condition. Even patients can follow this. The result is experience of
calm and quite Mind and body.
Preposition -Sit comfortably on easy chair or sofa. Straighten the legs but
don't stretch them. Keep your hands on chair or on your knees loosely. Keep
your fingers relaxed. Close your eyes gently. Relax the body.
Procedure -Relax every muscles from toes to the top, one by one and slowly.
Relaxation of muscles creates a feeling of pleasure in your mind and body.
As the muscles are relaxed the breathing becomes slower and slower. Now
focus your Mind on the breathing. Do not control the breathing but witness
it. As the body is relaxing the breathing becomes slow. As the breathing
becomes slow, the Mind becomes calm and quite. As the Mind becomes
calm and quite, the body relaxes further, which further reduces the breathing
rate and so on. After pre planned time elapses, be aware of your breathing,
body parts, make the slow movements and slowly open your eyes and come
to preposition.
Spiritual Therapies -
Dhoop Chikitsa –Inhalation of medicated smoke -
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This is especially useful to calm/pacify mind and give energy to mind.It has
two types – 1.Purification -To take out negative things/vibrations by burning
certain things.e.g. burning of dried chillies, cow dung fumes etc. 2.Mind
strengthening. To spread calmness and tranquility. It could be in form of
burning sacred incenses, agaru (aquaria agalocha), Sandalwood, Guggulu
etc. Ghee lamp lightening is one of the best and sacred dhoop chikitsa.
Mantra Chanting -
Mantra is the main healing tool specific to the mind, though it has strong
impacts on the prana as well. It is best way to communicate with God as we
communicate in God’s own language. The concept here is that certain
Sanskrit verses ("mantras") when pronounced correctly by qualified pious
persons ("Brahmanas") have the effect of pleasing the Gods and receiving
their benediction.
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Universal mantra OM - If one can't meet his guru, he can select the universal
mantra
Effects of Mantra -
On personal level
- Mantra impacts on mental & psychological plane in a positive way.
- Stirs up emotions (desires, fears, jealousy from subconscious mind to
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On surroundings
- Deeper, subtle & astral spheres
- Impacts on macro cosmos & micro cosmos
- Purification of collective conscious mind
Pranayama during Mantra - Breath and Mantra (So ham with breath) One
can chant the Mantra while exhaling or inhaling or both. While breathing a
subtle sound of "So" can be heard and while exhaling "Ham", which is a
repetition of Mantra "So Ham"
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For controlling of fear of death etc., meditate on Lord Shiva and perform one
osary of chant everyday with burning of medicated perfumed insence.
7.Goddess Mantra -
Aum sarva mangala maangalye
shive sarvartha saadhike
sharanye trayambake gauri
narayani namostute.
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Aum, we worship Lord Shiva (The Three eyes done) who is full of fragrance
and who nourishes all beings, may he liberate us from death, for the sake of
immortality, just as the ripe cucumber is severed from its bondage (of the
creator). This mantra is known as the Moksha Mantra of Lord Shiva. Maha
Mrityunjay Mantra evokes the Shiva within and removes the tear of death,
liberating us from the cycle of death and rebirth.
May all attain happiness, May all be healthy, May all enjoy good fortune,
May none suffer misery and sorrow.
Yantra -
1. Sun (Surya) -Ruby (Manik), Chant Gayatri Mantra, Sun Planet Mantra (
Japakusuma…)
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( Priyangu kalika…)
Homa Chikitsa
Rituals are helpful to bring body and senses into healing process. They serve
to provide positive impressions to nourish and heal the mind. In homa-
which is also called as agnihotra- ritual psychological all negative
impressions are burnt in fire. For this ritual fragrant sandalwood, water, ghee
lamp, incense /dhoop and flower is offered for earth, water, fire, air and
ether elements.
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Yagnya is the sacrifice given to god and goddesses for their fulfillment and
the prayer offered to them.
Burning cow dung cakes also takes care of ghosts, especially if the dried
chilies are thrown in the fire. Several substances which cause holy smoke are
used in Yagyas as offering ("Aahuti") to fire. Most well known substance is
Indian cow ghee, which is believed to create active oxygen when burnt in
fire. That is why; cow ghee is used in lamps during worship in all Indian
temples.
Colors
White- brings mental peace and purity. Blue creates feelings of peace and
detachment. Gold develops discrimination. Green promotes harmony,
balance and healing.
Aroma
Incense, oils, etc. of sandalwood, camphor and cedar, cleanse psychic
environment, Myrrh and frankincense remove negative thinking and purify
the air. Rose and lotus calm and nourish the heart. Jasmine cleanses the
emotions and increases love and compassion. Gardenia purifies heart.
Helpful flowers to have around the house include aloe and basil.
Consuling
The procedure to explain the Vata person to calm his anxiety about such
changes will be different than the Kapha person or a Pitta person. Their
psychology will greatly color how such recommendations are made and
whether they will work, or not. It is not enough in Ayurveda that we as
practitioners can arrive at a correct diagnosis and treatment plan; we must
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References -
3. Sharirendriya sattvatma……
6.
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10. Visheyandriya sanyogad yatt tat agre amrutopmam, Pariname vishan eva
tat sukham rajas am smrutam.
11. Yat agre cha anubandhe cha sukham mohanam atmanaha, adhishthaya
manaschayam vishayan upasevate.
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Chapter 2
Stress – Taan
Etiology -
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Pathogenesis -
Due to various causative factors, person cannot perform his daily work, and
if he does, it leads to fatigue, and other symptoms, resulting in various stress
disorders.
Symptoms -
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Treatment
1. Psychological treatments -
The best treatment for all psychological diseases is to increase the
intelligence, courage and self knowledge. (Dhee dhairyatmadi veednyanm
manodoshaushadham param)
2. Purification or Panchkarma -
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Basti:
As manas disorders are closely related to “Vata” dosha, this specific
Panchakarma procedure is very important. Especially useful in Vata type.
In these patients, first snehena is given and then Niruha/decoction basti is
given.It is followed by alternate anuvasan/oil basti and niruha/decoction
basti. Sesame oil and Dashamoola decoction are used for these basti.
Nasya:
With proper pre procedures, nasya is recommended with ksheerbala oil, anu
oil etc.
Shirodhara
This procedure is one of the best treatment for Stress. It gives instant relief
in stress.
Oil is poured on forehead at Sthapani Marma or third eye has direct effect on
Ajnya chakra and thus it helps to calm down aggressiveness, thus balances
doshas.
Music as per dosha vitiation during this process is especially played.
Oil such as Brahmi oil or buttermilk (Takradhara) is used for shirodhara.
3) Pacification
Diet -
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• Vegeterian food
• Whole grains, seeds, nuts.
• Raw foods as salads, green leafy vegetables.
• Organic fresh fruits
• Saatvic diet
• Light and madhur rasa (sweet taste) diet is recommended.
• Green gram in the form of kichari is especially useful.
Herbalized oil massage is used to pacify vata and reduce muscle spasms and
strain. Sesame oil, coconut oil and mustard oil are best base oils for Vata,
Pitta and Kapha type respectively.
Herbs -
Mantra chanting -
Asana
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bring your forehead to the floor. Breathe deeply, hold for as long as is
comfortable. Then slowly sit up.
Shavasana- Dead pody posture every evening before going to bed is useful.
Pranayama -
• Seetkari
• Sheetali
• Paramshanti pranayama
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Chapter 3
Schizophrenia
Modern Perspective
Introduction
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Medications -
Conventional, or typical, antipsychotics. These medications have
traditionally been very effective in managing the positive symptoms of
schizophrenia. These medications have frequent and potentially severe
neurological side effects, including the possibility of tardive dyskinesia, or
involuntary jerking movements. This group of medications includes -
Haloperidol (Haldol), Thioridazine, Fluphenazine
All antipsychotic medications have side effects and possible health risks.
Certain antipsychotic medications, for instance, may increase the risk of
diabetes, weight gain, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Clozaril can
cause dangerous changes in your white blood cell count. Certain
antipsychotic medications can cause serious health problems in some older
adults and should be avoided.
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Etiology
The coward person having less sattva easily gets affected. Frequent intake of
unwholesome/contradictory/stale food, The food not consumed by normal
eating practices, Incorrect Tantra practice, Person who have weak body,
Recurrent lust, anger, fear, anxiety, delusion, grief, stress etc. Insult of
deities, guru, parents and holy persons. Abnormal body movements. Doshic
imbalances, either by constitution or by external factors. Excess of rajas and
tamas doshas. Karma (the results of acts done by the individual in previous
and present life)
Pathogenesis
Vitiated doshas of less sattva person enters in Manovaha srotasa affects
Manas (mind) creating disturbances in its functions (Viz. comprehension
(Dhi), memory (Dhriti) and recollection (Smriti)), intellect, knowledge,
character, behaviour, body movements etc.). It overlaps proper functions of
mind.
Types
Vata type
Pitta type
Kapha type
All three doshas collectively vitiates to form Sannipatik
Agantu unmaad is also described, which occurs due to external factors like
deities, demons, planets etc.
Vata type
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Because of vata vitiating diet, climate and activities vata vitiates which
results in Vata type Unmaad.
In this type patient cries, laughs, dances, without any reason. Abnormal
movements of eyes, eyebrows, lips, shoulders, chin, hand, legs, etc.,
irreleveant speech. Acts as if he is playing flute, playing tabla etc. without
any music instrument. Spit comes out from his mouth. Wanders here and
there and speaks irrevelantly.Acts as if he is driving a vehicle. Whatever
food he eats, insults that food.
Pitta type
Because of Pitta vitiating diet, climate and activities Pitta vitiates which
results in Pitta type Unmaad. Patient of this type easily gets angry. He beats
himself or any other person with anything in his hand. Always seek for cold
food. His eyes are yellowish or reddish and looks angry. He wanders without
any cloths on his body.
Kapha type
Because of Kapha vitiating diet, climate and activities Kapha vitiates which
results in Kapha type Unmaad. Patient of this type has anorexia, vomiting,
saliva coming out from mouth, nose etc. He has very unclean hygiene, has
edema on face. He sits in oe place only. eyes are whitish.
Tridosha type
When all three doshas are vitiated, they attacks manovaha srotas and
tridosha type unmaad occurs. In this symptoms of all three doshas seen.
It is very dangerous and is incurable.
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In this type various supernatural symptoms are seen and during attack period
a person has tremendous/abnormal power, energy, memory, perception,
strength, knowledge etc.
These forces enters in the body of affected person when he is alone or in the
evening, or no moon/full moon night, during intercourse, during rituals,
during war, in the night, etc/ time. They enter in the body as the image
reflects in mirror or the sun ray enters in prism.
When they enter for violence, the person jumps in the fire or in the water or
in deep burrow, hurts himself with weapon, stick etc. acts which are life
threatening. This type is incurable.
Other two (intercourse or ritual) are treated with mantra, gems, mangal,
sacrifice, ritual, fasting etc.
Deities or demons neither attack nor intend to attack any person, but it is
their karma to enter in such impure persons. So the person himself is
responsible for that and not other forces. So only the person himself is
responsible for his state.
Treatment
We cannot treat the mind without treating prana, which requires yogic
practices of pranayama and pratyahara. And we cannot treat prana without
considering the doshas of Vata, Pitta and Kapha, which are mainly pranic
doshas or pranic imbalances.
This means correcting the diet, adding helpful herbs and other Ayurvedic
massage and cleansing methods like Pancha Karma are mandatory.
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Rational Therapy –
1. Shodhana or Panchkarma
Basti:
As manas disorders are closely related to “Vata” dosha, this specific
Panchakarma procedure is very important. Especially useful in Vata type.
In these patients, first snehena is given and then Niruha/decoction basti is
given. It is followed by alternate anuvasan/oil basti and niruha/decoction
basti. Sesame oil and Dashamoola decoction are used for these basti.
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Nasya:
This panchakarma procedure is one of the best treatments for Unmaad, both
in acute and chronic phase. Because of it approximation with manas and
buddhi, it gives instant relief in both stages of disease.
Shirodhara
It is special treatment for all manas rogas.
In schizophrenia, the oil poured on third eye give has direct impact on Ajnya
chakra and thus it helps to calm down aggressiveness, thus balances doshas.
Music as per dosha vitiation during this process is especially played.
Shiva stotra played during shirodhara gives additional benefits.
Oil such as Brahmi oil or buttermilk (Takradhara) is used for shirodhara.
2. Shamana or Pacification
Diet
Foods create moods. It also helps to restore harmony and balance of mind.
Vegeterian food having whole grains, seeds, nuts and raw foods as salads,
green leafy vegetables should be consumed.
Organic fresh fruits should be taken.
Foods that infuse your body with bliss have a high level of prana (life force)
which includes fresh, organic fruits and vegetables such as summer
squashes, fresh milk products such as butter milk, and whole grains such as
rice, quinoa, amaranth, and barley.
Some high-mood foods to favor are soaked walnuts and almonds, sunflower
and pumpkin seeds, Rose Petal Jam (gulkand) and Almond Butter.
The more fresh and digestible the foods, the more they create ojas, the
biochemical equivalent to bliss and happiness and helps to open manas
channnels (manovaha srotas).
Light and sweet taste diet is recommended.
Green gram in the form of kichari is especially useful.
Ghee
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Decoction / Tea
Vata type -1/2 tsf whole cumin seeds, 1/2 tsf whole coriander seeds, 1/2 tsf
fennel seeds, 3 pinches of ashwagandha root powder, 1 pinch whole-root
licorice powder. Boil two quarts of water. Add spices and cover to steep.
Drinking beverages at a warm temperature is best for Vata types.
Pitta Type -2 pinches of Indian Sarsaparilla powder, 1/4 tsf Cumin seeds, 2
pinches of licorice powder, 1/2 tsf Fennel seeds, 1/2 tsf Coriander seeds
Same procedure as above; only let the water cool to room temperature
before drinking.
Kapha Type -2 thin slices of fresh ginger root, 2 basil leaves, 2 whole
cloves, 1/2 tsf whole cumin seeds, 2 pieces licorice powder. Same procedure
as above; only sips the water hot, during and after meals.
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amounts of honey or raw sugar), Yogurt with milk, sour fruits, melons, fish,
starches, cheese, or bananas
Melons with any other foods, but especially grains, starches, grilled foods or
cheese, The nightshade family (which consists of tomatoes, potatoes,
eggplant and sweet peppers) with yogurt, milk, melons or cucumbers.
Cooking
Kundalini Massage
Special type of massage with Medhya (intellect boosting) herbal oil is given
to merudand (spinal cord). This gives best results in Active phase of
schizophrenia also.
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Formulations -
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stimulating colors like yellow, red. Light diet with pungent, bitter, astringent
tastes. Penetrating fragrances like musk, camphor. Strong aerobic exercises.
Social service to others. Anti Kapha mantras like “Krim”, “Hum”.
Meditation on mother Kali / Rudra.
Spiritual therapy -
Tantra
Fasting on Saturday. Offering black masha (black gram), sesame oil etc. to
Shani/Saturn and putting horse-shoe shaped iron piece on door frame.
Rituals
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Burning cow dung cakes also takes care of ghosts, especially if the dried
chilies are thrown in the fire. Several substances which cause holy smoke are
used in Yagyas as offering ("Aahuti") to fire. Most well known substance is
Indian cow ghee, which is believed to create active oxygen when burnt in
fire. That is why, cow ghee is used in lamps during worship in all Indian
temples.
Yantra
Sri Yantra, which is most complex and most harmonizing is worshipped and
kept with the patient.
Anjana
Pranayama -
Prevention -Ayurveda therapy aims at not only removing the doshas and
increasing sattva guna but also eliminating the negative karmas and karmic
patterns (samskaras) which sustain them in their own behavior.
Prognosis
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There is currently no perfect cure for Schizophrenia, but many patients can
be successfully managed with medications and professional counseling.
Consistent, long-term treatment is critical to the successful management of
Schizophrenia. Many patients discontinue medicines because of unpleasant
or intolerable side-effects of modern medicines. Ayurvedic herbal
medicines score positively on this aspect, since they can be used long-term
without any serious side-effects. Several herbal combinations are now
available which can be used independently in patients with mild to moderate
symptoms. For Schizophrenic patients with severe symptoms, the Ayurvedic
medicines can be added to a modern medicine as adjuvant therapy, so that
the therapeutic effect is optimized, without increasing the side-effect load.
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Chapter 4
Anxiety Disorders
Modern Perspective
Each anxiety disorder has its own distinct features, but they are all bound
together by the common theme of excessive, irrational fear.
Panic Disorder
People with panic disorder have feelings of terror that strike suddenly and
repeatedly with no warning. They can't predict when an attack will occur,
and many develop intense anxiety between episodes, worrying when and
where the next one will strike.
If person is having a panic attack, most likely your heart will pound and you
may feel sweaty, weak, faint, or dizzy. Your hands may tingle or feel numb,
and you might feel flushed or chilled. You may have nausea, chest pain or
smothering sensations, a sense of unreality, or fear of impending doom or
loss of control. You may genuinely believe you're having a heart attack or
losing your mind, or on the verge of death.
Panic attacks can occur at any time, even during sleep. An attack generally
peaks within 10 minutes, but some symptoms may last much longer.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Obsessive-compulsive disorder, or OCD, involves anxious thoughts or
rituals one feel he/she can't control. If one have OCD, he/she may be
plagued by persistent, unwelcome thoughts or images, or by the urgent need
to engage in certain rituals.
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The person may be obsessed with germs or dirt, so he washes his hands over
and over. He may be filled with doubt and feel the need to check things
repeatedly. He may have frequent thoughts of violence, and fear that he will
harm people close to him. He may spend long periods touching things or
counting; he may be pre-occupied by order or symmetry; he may have
persistent thoughts of performing sexual acts that are repugnant to him; or he
may be troubled by thoughts that are against his religious beliefs.
The disturbing thoughts or images are called obsessions, and the rituals that
are performed to try to prevent or get rid of them are called compulsions.
There is no pleasure in carrying out the rituals you are drawn to, only
temporary relief from the anxiety that grows when you don't perform them.
Specific Phobias
A specific phobia is an intense fear of something that poses little or no actual
danger. Some of the more common specific phobias are centered around
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anxiety, stress, and tension affect the nervous system, and can cause many
further complications if left uncorrected.
Ayurveda attributes anxiety disorder symptoms to aggravated prana vata, a
subsidiary of vata dosha which is associated with worry, anxiety and
depression.
Prana Vata weakens the nervous system and triggers mental imbalance. It
also weakens the neuro-hormonal system and nerve impulses.
Etiology -
Vata aggravating factors such as –intake of excessive light, dry, cold food,
fasting and irregular eating, and suppression of natural urges, less sattva,
general weakness, malnutrition, negative thinking, fear and constant tension
are the main causes.
Pathogenesis –
Etiology -
Anxiety
Symptoms -
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Various types of symptoms are noted like -Long term severe worry, tension,
irritability or depression, for no clear reason. Excessive or unwarranted
worry (usually overwork, finances, relationships, and health). Heart
palpitations (rapid or irregular heartbeats), sense of impending danger,
difficulty or Inability to concentrate or mind going blank. Muscle tension
especially in the neck, shoulders, and chest; muscle aches; trembling or
twitching in the muscles. Diarrhoea, Chest pain, Dry mouth, Hot flashes,
Excessive sweating, sweaty palms, Undereating or overeating, loss of
appetite, Insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep, nightmares),
Irritability, Fatigue, headache, Easily fatigued, Trembling or feeling shaky,
Rapid and shallow breathing, or feeling short of breath (hyperventilation),
Loss of sex drive, Being easily startled, Occasional panic attacks,
Restlessness, Inability to relax, Headaches, Feelings of tightness in chest
Emotional instability and Tendency to be cry without an obvious reason.
Treatment
Purification -
B) Basti:
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C) Nasya:
Because of its approximation with manas and buddhi, it gives best results in
anxiety. With proper pre karma procedures, nasya with Brahmi ghee, Cow
ghee, Ksheerabal oil is recommended.
D) Shirodhara
It is special treatment for anxiety. The oil poured on third eye give has direct
impact on Ajnya chakra and thus it helps to calm down aggressiveness, thus
balances doshas. Music as per dosha vitiation during this process is
especially played. Oil such as Brahmi oil or buttermilk (Takradhara) is used
for shirodhara.
F) Shirobasti
Medhya oil such as brahmi oil or Amalaki oil is poured in the cap put on
head of the patient. It is kept about 30-45 minutes on head. This procedure is
best for stabilization of mind and buddhi.
G) Abhyanga / Massage
A full-body oil massage helps to reduce anxiety. Oils like Chandan bala
lakshadi oil, Brahmi oil, Jatamansi oil are useful.
Pacification –
Useful Herbs
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Useful Formulations -
1. Brahmi ghrita -This is ghee made by combining four Medhya herbs with
cow ghee. By taking this 1 – 2 tsp daily morning & evening will strengthen
as well as relax the brain centres
3. Panchagavya Ghruta- Cow Ghee processed in cow milk, cow urine, cow
dung, cow yoghurt, cow butter.
Useful Minerals -
1. Suvarna bhasma -It is sweet, astringent, oily in nature and cool (Sheet)
inpotency. It is one of the best detoxifier and acts on smruti, Pragya of the
manas. Best cardiotonic (location of mind) and pitta, vata pacifier.
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2.Roupya bhasma (Silver ash) - Best intellect booster and regulates function
of Sadhak pitta. Being best Vata and Pitta pacifier, calms down anxiety.
Diet -
Satvic, high prana and nutritious diet is most important. Sattvic food is
always freshly cooked and simple, juicy, It is light, unctuous, nourishing,
sweet and tasty. It increases the energy of the mind and produces
cheerfulness, serenity and mental clarity. sattvic food is highly conducive to
good health.
Milk, butter, ghee (clarified butter) fresh buttermilk, fresh ripe fruits as
pomegranate, apple, bnana, oranges, grapes etc., almonds, dates, moong
(green gram) sprouts, barley, wheat, cereals, fresh green vegetables like
spinach, green beans, tomatoes, parwar(bitter gourd), karela, plantains etc.,
are sattvic.The spices commonly used in sattvic cooking are turmeric,
ginger, cinnamon, coriander, fennel (saunf) and cardamom.
Yoga
Pranayama
Meditation
Medicated smoking
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Mantra Chanting
Guru mantra:
“Gurur brahma…”
For controlling of fear of death etc., meditate on Lord Shiva and perform a
mala of chant everyday with burning of Dhoop.
Om Namah Shivaya
This mantra is considered as the five-lettered mantra related to Lord Shiva.
The Mantra has a number of advantages. The regular and continuous chant
of this mantra for 1.25 lakh times brings pleasure and peace of mind. In
addition, it helps to minimize sins, if any. The use of rudraksha mala (A
beaded garland of the seeds of Eleocarpus Ganitrus Tree) while chanting is
favourable.
Goddess Mantra -
Aum sarva mangala maangalye
shive sarvartha saadhike
sharanye trayambake gauri
narayani namostute.
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Yantra
Sri Yantra, which is most complex and most harmonizing is worshipped and
kept with the patient.
Warm Bath
A warm bath in a tub with rose petals and aromas is helpful in pacifying
anxiety. Ayurveda imparts the snana is best for relaxation.
Rituals are helpful to bring body and senses into healing process. They serve
to provide positive impressions to nourish and heal the mind. In Homa / fire
ritual psychological negativity is offered for purification. Fragrant
sandalwood, water, ghee lamp, incense/dhoop and flower is offered for
earth, water, fire, air and ether mahabhutas.
Colors
Aroma Therapy
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Aromas like Sandalwood, Rose, Lotus calm and nourish the mind. Jasmine
is also helpful in anxiety as it increases love and compassion.
Music Therapy
Don’t procrastinate, hide, or run away. Believe that you have the power to
overcome your anxiety. Immediately, it may not feel good to face your fears
directly, but if you apply this strategy consistently, it always works.
Sattavavajaya chikitsa
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Chapter 5
Depression -Vishada –Dainya
One of the most common health conditions in the world formally called
major depression, major depressive disorder or clinical depression. While
mood swings are a normal part of life, chronic depression is a serious
disorder that limits the quality of life and suppresses the immune systems.
Depression has been on a steady rise worldwide since the early twentieth
century. It is a by-product of industrialization, fast life of modern era. When
a person is too overcome with negative emotions, it becomes difficult to
focus on any other issue. The person may become lethargic and lose interest
in what is going on around them. Such a state may occur when a person fails
in an examination, loses a job, gets jilted by a lover, gets divorced, loses
some dear one, etc. Some people are able to get over their emotions quickly.
But in some others, depressions may last for several days, weeks or even
months.
Etiology -
Pathogenesis -
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Vata Type
Causes –
Exposure to severe cold and darkness, severe winter weather, too much sex
or frequent masturbation, irregular working hours all these can cause Vata
type depression. Similarly all Vata aggravating factors also can cause
depression.
Symptoms -
Feelings of depression or low mood and energy, cold skin to the touch, poor
appetite, weight loss, indigestion, constipation, hypersensitivity, anxious
nature, sleeplessness, excessive talking about nothing and everything, fearful
and restless nature, frequent urination are the main symptoms.
Treatment -
Vata-pacifying diet e.g. eating foods that are tonifying to body and mind and
warm in nature should be consumed. Avoid salads, and caffeine. Favor
whole grains, vegetables cooked in oil and nuts. Add warmer and "heavier"
foods to the diet (such as soups, pasta, and rice with well-cooked
vegetables).
Maintain a regular daily routine with early bedtime. Daily abhyanga (oil
massage) with sesame oil should be done. Take warm baths or showers.
Mild exercise such as walking or yoga postures is advisable.
Meditation is very important to settle the person without threatening the
dynamism characteristic of Vata dosha.
Listen to relaxing music. Nasya of warm sesame oil (3 to 5 drops in each
nostril) in the morning and evening on an empty stomach is beneficial.
Champi or head massage with sesame oil is also useful.
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Pitta Type
Causes
Symptoms –
Follow Pitta-pacifying diet. Avoid hot and spicy foods, red meat, fish,
vinegar, cheese, alcohol, and tobacco. Prefer cool (not ice cold) drinks, a
vegetarian diet, dairy products (not yogurt), sweet fruit, most vegetables and
grains. Stay out of the sun; keep cool. Minimize hot baths or showers.
Moderate exercise such as swimming, cycling. Take largest meal at noon;
don't skip lunch. Panchakarma purification procedures like vamana and
virechana. Daily meditation, listening to relaxing music and daily coconut
oil massage should be done. Brahmi ghee nasya, 3 to 5 drops in each nostril,
twice a day on an empty stomach.Use Pitta-reducing herbs such as –Aloe,
coconut, coriander, pomegranate, sandalwood, shatavari (indian asparagus)
and guduchi.
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Kapha Type
Causes -
Tendency toward inactivity and lack of exercise, laziness, eating heavy diet,
not dressing properly for the cold weather, eating cold instead of warm
foods, increase of ama due to eating wrong foods, or to poor eating habits
such as not chewing food sufficiently, reading or watching TV while eating,
etc. and daytime sleep.
Symptoms -
Treatment -
Follow Kapha-pacifying diet, especially spicy, hot foods, light soups. Favor
apples and pears, grains such as barley, buckwheat, millet, and corn. Honey
is the only sweetener good for Kapha. All spices (except salt) are good.
Minimize oils and fats, wheat and rice, cold food in general, sweets, nuts,
rich desserts, red meat, most dairy. Use heating herbs such as ginger, pepper,
turmeric. Drink ginger tea.
Avoid daytime sleep. Take 1 teaspoon triphala with 1/2 cup warm water at
bedtime every night. Nasya of Brahmi oil into each nostril twice a day, and
rub the oil on the sides of your feet at bedtime.
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1. Shodhana - Purification
Basti -Sesame oil and Dashamoola decoction are used for these basti. The
decoction should be warm. If Kapha dominance is more, lekhana basti with
cow urine/ triphala decoction is recommended.
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Research:
American academy of child adolescent psychiatry 31:125-131, 1992.
30 minutes massage was given for 5 days to children and adolescent having
depression. The massage group were less depressed and anxious, than those
who viewed relaxing videotapes.
The study group also had lower levels of saliva cortisol and decreased levels
of urinary cortisol and norepinephrine.
Swedana(To clear channels and liquefy kapha)
2. Shamana -Pacification
Besides these contemporary herbs, the one which are recommended are
vajikarana herbs and compounds prepared from following herbs -
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Kapikachhu (Mucuna pruriens), Ginger
(Zingiber officinale), Nutmeg (Myristica Fragrans), Bala (sida cordifolia)
These herbs being hot in potency and stimulant, helps to pacify tamas dosha
and promotes intelligence.
Abhrak bhasma (Mica ash) -Pacifies Vata and Kapha. Best tonic to Manas.
boosts immunity and mental strength.
Formulations -
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2. Lashunadi Ghritam
(Ghee processed in Garlic, Trikatu, Hirda, cow milk etc.) It also can be used
for Nasya.
5. Vasantkusumakar rasa -Best tonic and gives strength to all tissues and
mans.
Yoga – Regular exercise of Sun salute is very useful along with following
postures –Tadasana, Vrikshasana, Dhanurasana, Naukasana, Sarvangasana,
Trikonasana, Bhujangasana, Halasana and Paschimottasana.
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Spiritual Therapies –
Dhoop Chikitsa – Inhaling medicated smoke is useful for calming the mind
and giving relaxation. This is done by burning incenses made from agaru
(aquaria agalocha), Guggulu etc. Use of irritating smoke by burning dried
chillies is also done for removing negative emotions from the mind by
compelling the patient to inhale irritating smoke of chili, vacha etc.
Aum, we worship Lord Shiva (The Three eyes done) who is full of fragrance
and who nourishes all beings, may he liberath from death, for the sake of
immortality, just as the ripe cucumber is severed from its bondage (of the
creator) known as the Moksha Mantra of Lord Shiva, Maha Mrityunjay
Mantra evokes the Shiva with in and removes the tear of death, liberating us
from the cycle of death and rebirth.
Yantra -
Sri Yantra, which is most complex and most harmonizing is worshipped and
kept with the patient.
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Homa chikitsa -
Burning cow dung cakes also takes care of ghosts, especially if the dried
chilies are thrown in the fire. Several substances which cause holy smoke are
used in Yagyas as offering ("Aahuti") to fire.
Colors
Stimulant and bright colours are recommended for wall paint and cloths.
Yellow, red and orange and shades of colours are useful.
Aroma therapy
Music
Ashvasana -Counselling
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Don’t procrastinate, hide, or run away. Believe that you have the power to
overcome your anxiety. Immediately, it may not feel good to face your fears
directly, but if you apply this strategy consistently, it always works.
Sattavavajaya chikitsa -
Formulations -
Anti-depressant tea:
11 leaves of Holy basil
1/4-1/2 tsp dry ginger powder
1 tsp crystal sugar or 10 gms jaggery or date sugar
1 cup of water
Boil for 10 minutes and drink twice/thrice a day.
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Chapter 6
Modern Perspective
DSM-IV Criteria:
Anorexia Nervosa
DSM-IV Criteria:
Bulimia Nervosa
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Anorexia Nervosa
A person suffering from arochak will develop a strong dislike for food,
which may cause the person to become underweight and poorly developed in
body and physique. In severe cases, arochak can also lead to starvation or
metabolic problems caused due to lack of food in the body.
Definition of arochak
The word arochak is derived from the Sanskrit ‘aruchi’, which means ‘lack
of taste’. Lack of taste is what results in the condition of arochak. Arochak is
defined as a bodily condition that is caused by reduced eating methods.
Anorexic people are frightened of putting on weight, and are obsessed with
extreme slimness. This causes a dislike of food in the person. Anorexic
people are generally underweight and have erratic metabolic functions.
Today, arochak has become a very widespread disease. This has been
aggravated by the media that projects thin women as beautiful. Hence girls
try to imitate those models and fast until they too get a slim figure. This
notion has caused thousands of cases of arochak.
Arochak can be fatal if not cured early on. Since a person with arochak will
lose interest in food, it will directly affect the health of the person. The
person will have secondary problems like giddiness, dizziness, headaches,
cramps, nausea, vomiting, digestive problems.
Arochak is not just related with the body of the person. The cause of the
disorder is seated within the thoughts of the person, and its effects are felt in
the functions of the body.
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Causes -
Restriction of food intake, fear of weight gain, taking diet of one rasa only,
grief, anxiety etc. factors, vitiated food consumption history.
Likes and Dislikes – Most people develop likes and dislikes when they are
young, which remain with them throughout their lives. Some children have
dislikes for particular types of food, whereas some of them may dislike food
in general. Some children do not like the process of sitting down in a place
and eating. All such developmental attributes cause arochak in later life.
Social Factors – The advertising media vastly propagates the thin and waif-
like figure as the ideal body. Most of the models shown in advertisements
are deploringly thin, and this brings into the minds of the youth a false idea
of beauty. Youth try to emulate these figures by themselves eating less. This
is the leading cause of arochak today, especially in the progressive societies
where it is considered very important to be body-conscious.
Vata Type -
Feeling of astringent taste in mouth, taste buds shows tasteless feeling, some
patients may observe pain in the chest.
Pitta Type –
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Bitter taste in mouth, feeling of heat inside body and foul smelling
perspiration.
Kapha Type -
Sweet / Salty taste in mouth, slimy feeling in mouth, heaviness and dullness
in the body.
Tridoshik -
Symptoms of all doshas are seen.
Manasik -
Because of emotional factors like anxiety, fear, grief, greed, mouth becomes
tasteless, refusal to eat, denial of hunger, flat mood, or lack of emotion,
difficulty concentrating
Symptoms-
The person will not be eating even while in company. He or she will keep
busy by playing with the food, talking with others or just generally pushing
the food around the plate.
A major portion of the food will be left uneaten in the plate and finally
thrown into the waste basket.
A person with arochak will serve others but not for himself or herself. He or
she will wait until all have eaten.
The person will regularly pass comments or remarks on the slim figures of
other people and complain about his or her own physique.
The person will try to skip meals and give excuses for not eating.
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The person will not indulge in strenuous activity as he or she will not have
the required bodily strength.
The person will spend a lot of time looking at himself or herself in the
mirror. He or she will keep pinching the flesh especially around the tummy
to see if there is any excessive weight.
Arochak is a very complex eating disorder with several effects on the body.
The person will lose interest in food. This will cause malnutrition.
Malnutrition can bring on a host of diseases in the person such as:-
Malnutrition will reduce the resistance of the body. This can make the body
susceptible to other diseases.
Arochak will retard the sexual functions in both men and women. In men
there is a decreased sexual drive which may culminate into impotence. In
women anorexia may cause missing of menstrual periods
Treatment
Shodhana - Purification
Shamana – Pacification
Abhyanga:
Soothing abhyanaga is very good for pacifying vitiated vata.
Vata Type -
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Pitta Type -
Kawalagraha (Holding of medicine in mouth cavity), Gandoosha (gargling)
of Amalaki, Pippali, Cardamom, Usheer, Sandlewood mixed with oil and
honey.
Kapha Type -
Lodhra (Symplocos racemosus), Haritaki, dry ginger, black pepper, Pippali
mixed with oil and honey.
Other types -
Ginger, Pomengranate, Cummin, sugar mixed with oil and honey.
In all above cases, after initial doses, Medhya Rasayana is advised. This
helps to re-establish mind-sense organ-intelligence- pathway so as to have
appropriate taste and hunger
There are some simple ayurvedic home remedies for the treatment of
arochak. Some of them are given below:-
2) Take some extract of lemon and mix some sugar with it. Flavor it with
cloves and black pepper. Drink this like a drink once a day. This drink also
increases appetite. The clove and pepper add flavor and improve the taste
buds of the person.
Counselling -
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The person with Kapha dominance will have more weight and have its own
benefits, while that of Vata dominance will have slim stature but have its
own demerits also.
2) Physical appearance is not only the factor but the mental and spiritual
beauty is important in real life.
4)Give him/her hope and make him/her aware that it is never too late.
Bulemia -
In this disorder, there is too much hunger, and a patient tends to binge
eating. But because of fear of weight gain, he / she go for purgation or
vomiting to take food content out.
This is the only disease, where there is no agnimandya – low digestive fire,
but on the contrary, there is intense digestive fire.
Because of this digestive fire, the patient go for binge eating, without which
this digestive fire is not pacified. But later he understands that because of
heavy food, he / she may gain more weight. This tends to taking purgative or
emetics so as to take the consumed food out and thus avoid weight gain.
Because of this vicious cycle, entire digestive system goes wild and in turn if
vitiates vata dosha.
This vitiated vata again disturbs digestive fire and emotional state of mind
also gets disturbed, which leads to nervousness, grief, restlessness,
instability etc.
Treatment:
Intake of heavy food like Jaggery etc.
Apamarg (Achyranthus aspera) is the choice of herb in this disorder.
Medhya herbs to take care of mental imbalance.
Kapalabhati pranayama is best for Bhasmak.
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Chapter 7
Addiction - Mada
These are – light, hot, penetrating, subtle, sour, dry and instant action.
Etiology -
1) Pradnyaparadha
Pathogenesis -
The addictive substance when taken by the person, being opposite properties
of Ojus, vitiates Ojas. It enters in heart, where mind and intelligence is
located, and vitiates them. Thus function of buddhi /intelligence i.e.
comprehension (Dhi), memory (Dhriti) and recollection (Smriti) are
disturbed.
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Research on Alcohol -
2. Sexual impotency (Alcohol provokes desire but takes away the pleasure-
Shakespeare in Macbeth)
5. 80% of chronic alcoholic are reported to be sterile and their testes shows
testes show seminiferous tubule atrophy and abnormal sperms. (Morrione
Bennett)
Symptoms -
2) Second stage – Person looses his memory and starts irrelevant speech. He
may suffer from vertigo.
Treatment -
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A) Purification – Panchakarma -
Vamana
It is a treatment that eliminates the vitiated kapha through the upper gastro-
intestinal track. It expels and cleanses Kapha dosha and other impurities in
body. It has been found to be highly effective in the treatment of de
addiction patients. Herbs generally used in for this include – emetic nut,
sweet flag, Liquorice etc.
Virechana
For this procedure, purgative herbal medicines are given for elimination of
poisonous waste materials. The purgative medicine consists of herbal
powders, medicated castor oil or herbal paste. For this purpose compounds
like Avipattika choorna, Gandharva haritaki etc. can be used. It is especially
useful when the person is of Pitta constitution in nature and having strong
emotions like anger etc.
Basti
In this form of treatment special medicines are introduced through the anal
route for the evacuation of accumulated toxins and metabolic wastes. It is
highly recommended for addiction. Honey, rock salt, herbal pastes, oils and
decoctions are the main ingredients used in basti.
It helps to cover instability and helps to calm down the patient.
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Abyanga /Massage
Snehana and Swedana help the patient body to get back its power and vigor
back. It also calms down negative emotions and soothes body and mind as
well.
Research:
International journal of neuroscience 84:205-217,1996
20 adult smokers were taught to conduct a hand or ear self massage during
three cravings a day for 1 month.
They had lower anxiety scores, improved mood and fewer withdrawal
symptoms in comparison to a control group. They also smoked fewer
cigarettes per day and found decrease in cortisol and increase in serotonin
levels.
Shriodhara
It helps the patient to fight back with the withdrawal symptoms of drugs
In this process herbal oil, medicated milk, medicated butter milk etc. are
poured on the forehead in a special method for about 45-50 minutes.
Ingredients used in Sirodhara include gooseberry, dashmool decoction etc.
Thakradhara
It is the profuse pouring of specially prepared buttermilk on the forehead of
the person for 45 minutes. This cools down the brain, relaxes the mind and
reduces stress, tension and anxiety.
This butter milk is a mixture of assorted herbs and spices and also includes
such herbs as gooseberry, sandal wood, valerian, vetiver and lotus etc.
Gooseberry and lotus are excellent cooling agents.
Thalapotichil
It is the application of herbal paste on the scalp of a patient for a specific
period of time. Selected medicinal herbs, thoroughly ground and made in to
a fine paste, is thickly applied on the scalp of the person. The scalp part of
the head is then covered up with usually banana leaf to allow the medicine to
stay on and function well. This stays on the person’s head for almost 45
minutes giving wonderful relaxation to the mind. Fruits and herbs such as
gooseberry, Liquorice, asparagus, henna, lotus seeds, sandal etc are
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Treatment of complications -
Diet – The patient should be given Sattvic and Anti -Pitta diet containing
lots of ghee and milk with fresh fruits and fresh vegetables. Meat soups with
ghee are also advised. In the morning guda-shunthi yoga should be given
and at night triphala powder should be given.
Pitta constitution – Mixture of dates and water with green gram soup or
soups of meat with sweet substances is useful.
Kapha constitution – If the digestion is very low, spices like trikatu should
be given.
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Life style -
Patient should to avoid tension and worry in their daily lives.
Taking short walk in open fields and gardens is useful as these provide
serenity and uplift the mind and soul. Cycling and swimming are
recommended.
Take sufficient sleep and take part in social get together and become
involved in social groups. This will help them to be active group members
and they will soon realize the futility of following an individualistic path and
their drug addiction.
Light entertainments like listening music, watching entertaining movies,
rearing pets etc have been found to pacify the excited and disturbed body
and mind and speed up the recovery process in de addiction patients. To be
in a good company always helps for those who have a strong motivation to
get rid of their addiction get the best long-term results. To be busy and
involved in fruitful and interesting work is also beneficial.
Counseling -
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Chapter 8
Modern Perspective
Clinical features -
ADHD symptoms fall into two broad categories: -Inattention and
hyperactivity impulsive behavior.
In general, children are said to have ADHD if they show six or more signs or
symptoms from each category for at least six months. These symptoms must
significantly affect a child's ability to function in at least two areas of life —
typically at home and at school. This helps ensure that the problem isn't with
only a particular teacher or with only parents. Children who have problems
in school but get along well at home or with friends are not considered to
have ADHD.
Inattention -
Often fails to pay close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in
schoolwork or other activities, often has trouble sustaining attention during
tasks or play, seems not to listen even when spoken to directly.
Has difficulty following through on instructions and often fails to finish
schoolwork, chores or other tasks.
They have problems organizing tasks or activities, avoids or dislikes tasks
that require sustained mental effort, such as schoolwork or homework,
frequently loses needed items, such as books, pencils, toys or tools and can
be easily distracted. They are often forgetful.
Hyperactivity-impulsiveness -
They fidgets or squirms frequently, often leaves his or her seat in the
classroom or in other situations when remaining seated is expected
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ADHD always begins in childhood, but it may persist into adult life. The
core signs and symptoms of distractibility, hyperactivity and impulsive
behavior are the same for adults as for children, but they often manifest
themselves differently and far more subtly in adults. Hyperactivity, in
particular, is generally less overt in adults. Children may race around madly;
adults are more likely to be restless and to have trouble relaxing.
On the other hand, problems with organization and concentration often
increase as people get older when their lives become more complicated and
demanding. Adults diagnosed with ADHD often say that their biggest
frustration is their inability to focus and to prioritize, leading not only to
missed deadlines but also to forgotten meetings and social engagements.
As difficult as this is, the impulsive behavior of some adults with ADHD can
be even more problematic. The inability to control impulses, which some
experts say may be the defining characteristic of ADHD, can range from
impatience waiting in line or driving in heavy traffic to mood swings,
intense outbursts of anger, blurting out rude remarks and having troubled
relationships.
Causes –
Altered brain function and anatomy can be the main cause. While the exact
cause of ADHD remains a mystery, researchers have discovered important
differences in the brains of people with ADHD. For example,
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Smoking, drug use and exposure to toxins during pregnancy can cause this
disease. Pregnant women who smoke are at increased risk of having children
with ADHD. And alcohol or drug abuse during pregnancy may reduce
activity of the nerve cells (neurons) that produce neurotransmitters. Pregnant
women who are exposed to environmental poisons, such as polychlorinated
biphenyls (PCBs), also may be more likely to have children with symptoms
of ADHD. PCBs are industrial chemicals that were widely used in the past.
Childhood exposure to environmental toxins. Preschool children exposed to
certain environmental toxins, particularly lead and PCBs, are at increased
risk of developmental and behavioral problems, many of which are similar
to those found in children diagnosed with ADHD. Exposure to lead, which is
found mainly in paint and pipes in older buildings, has been linked to
disruptive and even violent behavior and to a short attention span. Exposure
to PCBs in infancy may also increase a child's risk of developing ADHD.
Treatment -
Psychotherapy - This allows older children and adults with ADHD to talk
about issues that bother them, explore negative behavioral patterns and learn
ways to deal with their symptoms.
Behavior therapy -This type of therapy helps teachers and parents learn
strategies (contingency management procedures) for dealing with children's
behavior. These strategies may include token reward systems and timeouts.
Behavior modification using contingency management techniques has
proved especially beneficial for people with ADHD.
Family therapy. Family therapy can help parents and siblings deal with the
stress of living with someone who has ADHD.
Social skills training - This can help children learn appropriate social
behaviors.
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Support groups - Support groups can offer adults and children with ADHD
and their parents a network of social support, information and education.
Parenting skills training. This can help parents develop ways to understand
and guide their child's behavior.
Etiology
During pregnancy if the proper diet and behavior is not followed by the
mother it can result in offspring getting this disease. Keeping new born
baby in strong light and malnourishment of child can become the cause
of the disease. Similarly constant watching of television programs,
playing video games, excess use cell phone can also cause this disease.
Pathogenesis-
Indriyartha (object)
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↓
Manas (Mind) –Function of perception is disturbed
↓
Buddhi (Intellect) – Wrong perception by intellect & wrong decision is taken
↓
Manas (Mind) –Located in Hridaya (wrong decision is forwarded)
Symptoms-
Treatment -
Diet
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Don’ts - Cold fruit juices, all chemicals and preservatives in the diet, frozen
food, processed, sugar filled food, salted nuts, cold refrigerated food,
chocolates, Ice cream, watching TV while eating.
Do’s - Fresh fruits, warm food, organic food, unsalted nuts, whole grains,
bread, quinoa, rice, amaranth, whole wheat pasta etc, squashes, pumpkins,
zucchini and okra.
Formulations -
1.Brahmi ghrita
2.Saraswatarishta
3.Aswagandhadi lehya
4. Shatavari ghrita
Massage from head to toes with warm sesame oil 2-3 times a week.
This is followed by swedana, an herbal steam (using dashamula, or “ten
roots decoction”).
Meditation
Shirodhara
Warm medicated oil (Brahmi oil / Sesame oil) is poured over the
forehead
Takradhara -
Basti
Basti is an herbal enema, made with snehan / (sesame oil) and decoction
(dashamool) is administered alternately.
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Nasya
Nasya with Brahmi oil / cow ghee will help to stabilize mind and increase
concentration.
Pranayama -
Mantra chanting -
Other simple things that you can do - Do some fun activities sitting down
- drawing, painting, and coloring during some part of the day. Paint the
bedroom with calming colors like blue or green. Listen to tranquil music at
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bed time. Keep the temperature in the bedroom warm. Always protect their
head and ears- from cold air. Limit TV time and Video games. (You may
have to limit your TV watching time too). Children don’t do what you tell
them to do, they do what you do. Play outdoors rather than sitting in front of
a TV
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Chapter 9
Autism
Modern Perspective
Etiology - This disease is caused by aggravated Vata affecting all the majja
dhatu in the body. The exact cause is unknown.
Thimerosol (mercurial preservative) in vaccines can be the causative factor.
Fragile X is the most common inherited cause of mental impairment and the
most common known genetic cause of autism. This can be diagnosed by
DNA test.
It is usually identified at the age of 30 months of age till it becomes of 3
years. Such child seems to exist in her or his own world.
Symptoms –
In general, children with autism have problems in three crucial areas of
development — social skills, language and behavior.
The most severe autism is marked by a complete inability to communicate or
interact with other people. The child performs repetitive movements, such as
rocking, spinning or hand-flapping, develops specific routines or rituals.
becomes disturbed at the slightest change in routines or rituals, moves
constantly, may be fascinated by parts of an object, such as the spinning
wheels of a toy car, may be unusually sensitive to light, sound and touch.
Ayurvedic Perspective
A gross imbalance of Rajas and Tamas i.e. Vata and Kapha particularly
prana Vata which is the Vata seated in the mind controlling all mental
functions such as speech, concentration, memory, learning and neurological
response.
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The protocol for autism is focused on removing toxins from the system and
at the same time nourishing and energising the cells so that they may repair.
Kapha Type – Tamas increases leading to Mind blindness meaning the child
becomes emotionally flat.
Blocking of mental stimuli – Cognitive sense, mind impairment – Absence
of speech, intellectually subnormal. Such child starts talking later than other
children loses previously acquired ability to say words or sentences. Does
not make eye contact when making requests
Speaks with an abnormal tone or rhythm — may use a singsong voice or
robot-like speech. Can't start a conversation or keep one going. May repeat
words or phrases verbatim, but doesn't understand how to use them
Pathogenesis -
Indriyartha (Object)
↓
Cognitive impairment (Sensory)
↓
Manas (Mind) Blindness
↓
Buddhi (Intelligence) – Wrong/Abnormal perception by intellect
↓
Blocking of Manovaha Srotas
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Treatment -
A) General line of psychological treatment should be given.
B) Treatment alleviating Kapha and Vata.
C) Treatment for removing obstruction in channels. Proper Panchakarma
procedures when required.
D) Herbs having hot potency like Shankhapushpi should be used.
Diet –
Do’s -
Juices -
Following juices in dose of 2 cups per day are advised –Mango, apple,
grape, carrot, pineapple and litchi.
Fresh fruit juices (especially if organic and in season) aid in detoxification of
all tissues and are very calming and soothing to the mind and nerves. It is
preferable to use fruits available in particular season only.
Don’ts - All refined processed and chemical food, white sugar, potato chips,
chocolates, white flour, all types of soft drinks, leftovers, old cheeses, cold
foods and drinks, food cooked in microwave, nightshades and legumes and
Soya.
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Formulations -
1. Shankhapushpi Avaleha -Jam processed in Shankhapushpi, gotu kola,
calamus etc. dose – 5 gm. Per day.
2. Smrutisagar Rasa -Formulation prepared from mercury, sulphur (Kajjali)
copper ash processed in gotu kola, calamus, jyotishmati etc. decoction.
Dose- 500 mg. twice day.
3.Manasmitra Vataka – 250 mg. Three times day.
4.Aravindasava -30 ml. Three times day.
5. Brahma rasayana – 5 gm. Per day.
Abhyanga -
Chandan bala lakshadi oil/ Sesame oil /Mahanarayan oil should be applied
daily to the entire spine slightly warmed and Oil should be applied to the
head especially the crown of the head. Vata oil should also be applied on the
third eye for massage to sthapani and shankha marma.
Almond oil should also be applied to the head and feet daily.
Mantra chanting -
Mantras are very good for increasing Soma in the child and balancing the
mind. Tapes of mantras should be used. The Mahamrtyunja mantra should
be used as such.
Om triyambakam yajamahe sugandhim pushti vardhanam
Uvarukamiva bandhanan mrityor mukshia maamrutat
Note-
All vitamin supplements and any psychiatric medicines should be stopped
soon as possible. The body can not easily assimilate chemically extracted
vitamins. Rather get your vitamins from a balanced nutrition and strong
digestive fire. Strong medicines should be phased out and stopped as they
further add to toxicity. Check with your doctor and find natural substitutes or
consult with a qualified Ayurvedic doctor.
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Treatment has to be tailor-made for each child according to the severity and
presentation of symptoms. In addition, different children may respond
differently to the herbal medicines. Parents should avoid the temptation to
treat their children on their own.
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Chapter 10
Bipolar Disorder
The deep mood swings of bipolar disorder may last for weeks or months,
causing great disturbances in the lives of those affected, and those of family
and friends, too. Today, a growing volume of research suggests that bipolar
disorder occurs across a spectrum of symptoms, and that many people aren't
correctly diagnosed. Left untreated, bipolar disorder generally worsens, and
the suicide rate is high among those with bipolar disorder. But with effective
treatment, you can live an enjoyable and productive life despite bipolar
disorder.
Etiology-
Bipolar disorder manifests due to imbalance of the physical doshas Vata and
Kapha and the mental doshas rajas and tamas.
Pathogenesis -
Aggravated Vata dosha causes mania. Aggravated Kapha leads to
aggravation of tamas property. As a result, the person may experience
depression.
Symptoms -
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Treatment -
Ayurvedic herbs used for bipolar disorder are adaptogenic in nature. They
are equally valuable for mania or depression. The intent is not to force the
brain out of a depressive or a manic episode by providing herbal uppers or
downers but to balance the doshas and to normalize the production of
neurotransmitters.
Nasya -
With calamus oil is useful as it helps to pacifies both Kapha and Vata.
Basti
Basti with Sesame oil and Dashmula decoction is best to pacify Vata and
Kapha.
Herbs -
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nervousness causes. Brahmi is ideal for students and workers faced with this
problem.
Diet -
Fresh fruits, fruit juices, vegetables (raw or cooked or boiled), vegetable
juices, sprouts, nuts, dry fruits, honey, milk, ghee, fresh butter, and
buttermilk are the best to increase sattva and enrich the mind.
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Avoid black tea, coffee, white flour products, chocolates, white sugar
products, deep fried foods, hot spices, meat, fish, and eggs.
Yoga -Yoga is best for balancing two forces. Following postures should be
done on regular basis – Paschimottanasana, vrikshasana, tadasana and
Halasana.
Pranayama -Mind has a very close relation with breathing. A person has
short and shallow breathing when anxious or stressed and has deep breathing
when relaxed and happy. Nadishuddhi Pranayama should be done every day.
Exercise -
Light exercise like walking is recommended.
Sun salutes helps to stabilize mood.
Meditation -
For calming down the mind, meditation should be done.
Abhyanga –Oil massage – This is the best remedy to calm down body and
mind. Sesame oil or Mustard oil can be used.
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Chapter 11
Alzheimer’s Disorder – Smruti Bhramsha
In Alzheimer's disease, the Vata is severely provoked in the majja dhatu, the
tissue layer which includes the nervous system and all other tissues which
are contained within bone. Dry quality of Vata aggravates, and it vitiates the
brain. In addition, the Vata passes from the majja dhatu to the manovaha
srotas, or "mind-carrying channels," causing thought disorders such as
paranoia and delusions as well as memory loss and confusion.
The causes of this severe Vata provocation within majja dhatu and mano
vaha srotas are both hereditary and acquired. Susceptible people are those
who have a hereditary weakness of the majja dhatu. Once vata is provoked,
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it follows the line of least resistance, moving into the weakest tissue layer, in
this case, the majja dhatu. Acquired causes are those which serve to
aggravate the Vata dosha sufficiently to bring about the onset of the disease
in susceptible subjects.
Symptoms –
1. Early stage -The earliest sign is patient looses the smell of coffee,
cinnamon and banana
Loss of recent memory,
Inability to learn and retain new information.
Patient may have language problems, mood swings, and personality
changes.
Difficulties with the activities of daily living develop, judgment is affected,
and family members may begin to report strange behaviors
2. Intermediate stage -Patients are unable to learn and recall new
information.
They may require assistance with their activities of daily living.
Their behavior becomes disorganized.
They may begin to wander around, become uncooperative, hostile, and be
physically aggressive.
They loose sense of time and place.
3. Severe stage - They are completely unable to perform activities of daily
living, they may or may not be completely incompetent, and there is
complete loss of recent and remote memory.
Depression is very common.
Patients may have loss of some motor skills, be unable to eat or swallow,
and are usually placed in a long-term care facility.
Diet – 1.Grains -Rice, wheat, quinoa, oats, amaranth (chauli), all cooked
until tender. 2. Vegetables -Asparagus, tender greens, carrots, peas, green
beans, white daikon (mula), zucchini (dodka/ghosale), lauki squash, sweet
potatoes, all cooked. 3. Fruits -Avocado, pineapple, papaya, peaches, plums,
grapes, mangoes, oranges, cherries, all kinds of berries, limes and lemons,
apples, coconut, fresh figs, raisins (soaked). 4. Lentils -Mung beans, urad
dal, mung dal, masoor dhal, toor dal, red lentils, all cooked until butter-soft.
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5. Dairy -Whole milk, cream, butter, fresh butter milk, cottage cheese, fresh
cheese. 6. Oils: -Ghee, olive oil, sesame oil, cold-pressed nut oils such as
walnut. 7. Others -Fresh ginger root, cilantro, curry leaves, parsley, fresh
basil, fresh fennel, mint. 8. Nuts and Seeds -Almonds (soaked and
blanched), cashews, walnuts (soaked), pistachios, hazelnuts, pecans
(soaked), pine nuts, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds. 9.
Spices -Ajwain, dried ginger, asafetida (hing) in small quantities, fenugreek,
turmeric, cumin, clove, cardamom, coriander, fennel, black pepper, basil,
Chinese cinnamon, nutmeg, mustard seed, mint, rosemary, thyme, lemon
and orange zest, oregano, rock salt or sea salt, black salt, dried mango
powder, pomegranate seeds or powder. 10. Prepared recipes -Khichari:
This consists of Basmati rice, mung dal, well-cooked vegetables, and mild
digestive spices such as cumin, coriander, fennel, turmeric, and ginger. Rice
milk, soy milk, poppy seeds, sucanat, turbinado sugar, raw honey, and tofu
in moderation (diced small and cooked with spices)
Sudation / Fomentation -
After massage, patient should take steam bath to pacify Vata.
Basti -
Madhu tail basti – Mix together all the ingredients. Heat the same upto
body temperature and then give basti, alternate day.
1 1/2 pint pure water
1 oz. anise seeds
1 oz. ashwaganda (Withania somnifera)
1 oz. brahmi (Bacopa monniera)
Simmer, with lid on, for 20 minutes, and then add:
2 oz honey
2 oz sesame oil
1 t salt
Strain and cool to slightly above blood heat and use as enema.
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Nasya -
Vacha oil nasya (Acorus calamus) in sesame oil — best for vata
Brahmi (Bacopa monniera), ghee nasya — best for pitta
Shiro dhara -
Dhara with sesame oil should be administered for 45 minutes to calm down
and strengthen mind.
Shirobasti -
A therapy where medicated oil is kept on the head for a specific period with
the help of a cap
Pranayama-
Others -Do not skip meals. Eat a nourishing lunch at mid-day and lighter
meals at breakfast and dinner. Sit down to eat each meal, eat in a peaceful
atmosphere with your attention on your food, and sit quietly for a few
minutes after your meal.
Protect yourself from the cold and wind. Stay warm and toasty in cold
weather by wearing several layers of clothing. Wear a cap and scarf when
you go out to protect your ears and throat. Wear lip balm to prevent lips
from getting dry and chafed.
Walking is the ideal exercise for balancing Vata. Walk in the early morning,
for about 20 minutes every day.
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At bedtime, the soles of the feet should be massaged with warm sesame oil.
Research -
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Chapter 12
Etiology -
All factors that aggravate Vata can cause this disease – e.g. old age, Vata life
style, Vata aggravating food, heredity etc.
Pathogenesis -
Due to Vata vitiating factors Vyana Vata aggravates and disturbs rasa dhatu.
This Vata then vitiates Majjavaha and Manovaha srotas, and causes
Parkinsonism. In addition, Kapha gets diminished in the majja dhatu in
these patients. An increase in Vata dries out Kapha (cellular structure) in the
susceptible region of the Majja dhatu.
Symptoms –
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Treatment -
Ayurvedic treatment for this condition centers around the treatment of vata
disturbance.
Nasya -
Pouring of herbal oil in drops in to the nostrils and inhaling the contents.
This opens up the head channels and enables the herb extracts to act directly
on the central nervous system.
The herbal oil is a mixture of sesame oil and herbs such as Sida plants, cow
milk processed in milk etc. etc.
Sirodhara -
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Njavarakizhi
A process in which the whole body or any specific part is made to perspire
by applying custom made cotton pouches containing medicated rice cooked
with herbal decoction and milk. Sida, winter cherry are the herbs used in
making the decoction.
Thalapothichil -
It is the application of herbal paste on the scalp of a patient and covering it
with banana leaves. The process cools the brain and provides relaxation to
the mind. Fruits and herbs such as gooseberry, Liquorice, asparagus, henna,
lotus seeds, sandal, nut grass tuber, vetivera etc are used in the preparation
of this herbal paste.
Minerals -
1. Abhrak bhasma (Mica ash) -Pacifies Vata and Kapha. Best tonic to
Manas. boosts immunity and mental strength.
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2. Suvarna bhasma -It is sweet, astringent, oily in nature and cool (Sheet)
impotency. It is one of the best detoxifier and acts on smruti, Pragya of the
manas. Best cardiotonic (location of mind) and pitta, vata pacifier.
3. Roupya bhasma (Silver ash) -Best intellect booster and regulates function
of Sadhak pitta. Best Vata and Pitta pacifier.
Formulations-
2. Panchagavya Ghee -
4. Manasmitra tab. -
5. Vasantkusumakar rasa - Best tonic and gives strength to all tissues and
mans.
Yoga -
Simple asanas like Vajrasana, Padmasana, Paschimottanasana are
recommended.
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Chapter 13
Insomnia -Anidra
Sleep deprivation or poor quality of sleep impacts both short-term and long-
term health.
Ayurveda does not dictate eight hours of sleep every night for everyone, but
quality of sleep and quantity of sleep required by an individual to completely
recharge in mind, body and soul are considered crucial for health, bliss and
longevity.
What is Sleep?
In Ayurveda the word nidra is used for sleep. When the mind gets tired and
Senses also gets detached from their objects then sleep occurs. During the
sleep the senses gets detached from their objects, but mind may get involved
in its objects like thinking etc, which results in dreams.
Benefits of sleep -
Types -
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Your sleep needs are largely determined by your Ayurvedic body type -Vata
= 6-7 hours, Pitta = 7-8 hours, Kapha = 8-9 hours.
Insomnia -
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Causes
According to Ayurveda, nature also has its own rhythm. Insomnia can result
when we are out of harmony with nature's regular patterns. The natural
cycles run through phases of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. We are healthiest when
we organize our lives in tune with nature's rhythms.
Persons eligible for day time sleep - A person who is tired because of –
singing, alcohol consumption, sex, scientific experiments, physical hard
work and indigestion, weak person, old person, child and females.
Patients suffering from- diarrhea, indigestion, hiccough, pain, injured,
maniac and suffering from grief and anger.
In summer season, because night is smaller than day hours and because of
hot nature of climate, day sleep can be taken.
If day sleep is taken in other seasons, then kapha and pitta gets vitiated.
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But the persons having kapha constitution, kapha vitiation and fatty persons
should not sleep in day time in any season.
If a person doesn’t lie down and sleeps by sitting only, then no vitiation of
kapha or vata (during no sleep at night) occurs.
Treatment -
1. Abhyanga –Oil massage -Warm oil massage is one of the simplest and
most effective ways to induce sleep is to rub some oil on the scalp and the
soles of the feet before going to bed. Use sesame oil, brahmi oil, jasmine oil,
cow's ghee or jatamansi oil, and massage gently for a few minutes. Slightly
warming the oil before applying is helpful. Depending on an individual's
body type, different kinds of oil are used at varying temperatures to relax the
nervous system. These include -Coconut oil (Pitta type, used at room
temperature), Sesame oil (Vata type, applied warm), Mustard oil (Kapha
type, applied warm)
Massage soles of the feet with cow's milk at night. Add some camphor
during summer days.
2. Diet - A healthy diet can help in getting a good restful sleep at night. The
following guidelines must be obeyed:-1. A glass of milk before bedtime is
good for sleep. Butter and ghee are also considered to be sleep-inducers. 2.
As far as possible, spicy and oily foods must be avoided after dusk,
especially if the person is prone to lose sleep at night.
Warm milk -Drinking a cup of warm milk before going to bed helps bring
on a peaceful sleep. (Skip this if you are suffering from lactose intolerance.)
You can drink plain milk if you prefer, but the following suggestions will
make it more delicious as well as more effective. Add a pinch (up to 1/8
teaspoon) of nutmeg. Add some crushed almonds (blanched is better), a
pinch of nutmeg, and a pinch of cardamom. You can prepare the almonds in
a nut grinder or coffee grinder.
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Try garlic milk. Mix together 1 cup milk, 1/4 cup water, and 1 clove of
fresh, chopped garlic. Boil gently until 1 cup of liquid remains.
Suggestions -
Here are some Ayurvedic suggestions for falling asleep easily and naturally
and for obtaining a more rejuvenating quality of sleep:
Ayurveda decrees morning the best time to exercise. If you exercise in the
morning, it will help you fall asleep easier at night. Working out late in the
day is not recommended as this will raise energy levels and set you up for
activity rather than sleep. Exercise moderately, according to the needs of
your constitution, every day.
Do not eat a heavy dinner, and avoid spicy foods at night. Ayurveda
recommends a light dinner eaten at least three hours before bed. A one-dish
meal of a vegetable soup or mung bean kitcheree is nourishing yet not too
heavy. Do not drink too much water or other beverages after 6.30 p.m. Drink
a cup of warm milk at bedtime to help lull you into sleep. Lace the milk with
a large pinch of nutmeg for Vata, cardamom for Pitta and dried ginger for
Kapha.
A lower limb massage last thing before you get into bed is also a pleasant,
relaxing activity and helps improve sleep quality. Use a light, non-staining
oil such as sweet almond or jojoba. Your bedtime massage oil can be spiced
up with a few drops of essential oil of lavender if you like-6-8 drops for 2
oz. of base oil. Take a very small quantity of the oil in your palm and
massage your lower legs, from your knees to your toes, and your lower
arms, from your elbows to your fingertips, with easy up-and-down strokes.
Home remedies -
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1. Take a glassful of celery juice and mix a teaspoonful of honey in it. Have
this every night before going to bed. It will assure a restful sleep throughout
the night.
2. Grind some fried cumin seed to a fine powder. Mix them with the pulp of
a ripe banana. Eating this at night induces sleep.
Shirodhara -
Boil about two liters of cow’s milk with 60 grams of amalaki (Emblica
officinalis, Indian gooseberry) powder. The milk with curdle. Churn this
curd by adding water and extract butter from it. Make the patient lie flat on
the ground on a mat. Suspend the buttermilk from an earthen pot with a hole
in its base, such that the buttermilk drips directly between the two eyebrows
of the person on the ground. Continue this therapy for about twenty minutes.
Within a few days the insomnia will be totally cured.
The best way to treat insomnia is to seek a change in the lifestyle. Make
your life simpler and avoid tensions and worries. This will not only provide
good sleep, but it will also keep the body free from several other diseases
and infections.
A hot bath or shower at bedtime helps to soothe vata and promote sound
sleep. Mind pleasing smells/perfumes are useful with slowly pressing of
body parts.
Meditation -
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Sleep disturbances are often due to worries and anxieties that keep the mind
agitated at night. To help eliminate those anxieties, meditate for a while
before going to sleep.
Sit comfortably on your bed and put your attention on the "third eye" (the
area on your forehead between your eyebrows).
Lie on your back. Watch your breath, and continue the So-Hum meditation,
focusing your mind gently on the "third eye." You will sleep like a child.
Lie down in bed with the light off and allow yourself to fall asleep while
doing the following breathing exercises. Focus on deep regular breathing for
a few seconds. Give thanks for all the joys, experiences, even the trials of
your day. Keeping an awareness of your breath, get into your most
comfortable sleeping position. If you feel restless, just acknowledge that this
excess energy will pass. Continue to breathe slowly and deeply. Try to
imagine what your body feels like when it is in a deep relaxing sleep and
allow yourself to drift into that sleepy state. If you wake in the night, do not
get agitated, simply repeat the exercise.
Herbs -
1. Take the following herbs with water or milk thrice daily -Brahmi (Bacopa
Monrnera) 500mg - 1 gm, Vacha (Acorus Calamus) 100mg - 1 gm, Amla -1
gm or more and Shankhpushpi 250 mg. to the above- mentioned powders.
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Chapter 14
Ayurvedic View
Symptoms –
Debilitating fatigue, muscle pain, mental confusion, generalized aches and
pains, stiffness of various muscles in the body and psychological complaints.
Treatment - - -
The aggravation of Vata dosha and accumulation of Ama (toxins) are the
primary causes and should be treated mainly. Associated weak digestion,
constipation, and effects of chronic stress should also be tackled.
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Don’ts -Eating hot, spicy and fried foods, sweets, foods like brinjal,
cabbage, Cauliflower, spinach, broccoli, okra and potatoes. Too much tea,
coffee, alcohol, white sugar, yogurt, chocolate, cocoa. Sleeping during the
day and staying up late at night Mental tensions like worry, anxiety, fear,
stress and grief.
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One of the most important factors for balancing Vata and maintaining
stability in the nervous system is to have a lifestyle that does not disturb
natural bodily rhythms. When we eat, sleep and exercise in constantly
fluctuating and disturbing patterns, the body loses its natural balancing
cycles. Therefore regularity in our daily routine can be extremely effective
in reducing Vata imbalances.
Ayurvedic Herbs -
Half a teaspoon of turmeric powder with warm water helps to reduce pain
and inflammation in Fibromyalgia. Dosage: twice a day
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Licorice root supports the glandular system and acts in the body like
cortisone, but without the harmful side-effects.
Formulations –
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Chapter 15
Epilepsy - Apasmara
Definition
Epilepsy is characterized by convulsive seizure. With each convulsive
attack or seizure, patient loses some part of the memory; hence it is called as
"Apasmara.’ (Su. utt. 61/3, M.N. apas.1 and Ch.ni.8)
Etiology
Withholding natural urges, improper contact of sense organs with their
objects – perverted, excess or low- intake of impure, junk, toxic, preserved,
stale food; excitation of mind due to vitiation of rajas and tamas qualities.
(Su.utt.61/3). It can be mainly due to two main causes: Intracranial and Extra
cranial.
Intracranial causes include increased intracranial pressure due to tumor,
hydrocephalous, or sub arachnoid hemorrhage, other inflammatory
conditions of brain and meninges, trauma, vascular abnormalities, and
degenerative disorders.
Extra cranial causes include toxins, anoxia, endogenous causes, metabolic
and endocrine disorders. It can be due to an inherited constitutional
tendency.
Pathogenesis
When vitiated prana and Udana with Pitta and Kapha enter the nervous
system and channel of the mind, they vitiate rajas and tamas and produce
this disease (Su.utt.61/4).
Types
It has been divided into Vata, Pitta, and Kapha and due to vitiation of all
doshas.
Prodromal symptoms
Palpitations, excessive perspiration, loss of functions of the sense organs,
feeling of emptiness in the head and dreams of various types. (M.N.)
Symptoms
These are according to the stage of attack and stage of in between the attack.
The attacks can come after one week, ten days or after month. In between
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arms and legs, convulsions, grinding of teeth, moaning, crying, and hearing
of non-existent things. He may pass urine or stool and there may be froth at
1.Vata type - frequent loss of consciousness and very quick regaining the
same is main symptom. There may be stiffness, bulging of the eyes,
weeping, and visualizing nonexistent things.
2.Pitta type - during the attack, face, eyes, nails and skin may become
3.Kapha type- Loss of consciousness, and slow regaining after a long time is
present. The patient falls to the ground heavily and there is profuse
salivation at the mouth with froth. All these symptoms and attacks occur
Prognosis
Sannipatik or tridoshaja type is incurable. Similarly the type in which the
frequency of attacks is quite often, and there is tissue loss, is also incurable.
Treatment
During the attack, sanjnyaprabodhana (regaining consciousness) treatment
should be done by various methods like nasya, anjana-collyrium- or dhooma
- inhalation of medicated smoke.
For nasya -nasal instillation of hot and penetrating qualities should be done.
This is known as "pradhamana nasya." Herbs like Acorus calamus or acacia
concina are used in powder form for this purpose.
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Similarly collyrium with substances that will irritate eyes and medicated
For collyrium one can use paste prepared from triphala, trikatu, asafetida,
calamus or mustard seeds.
For medicated smoke piper longum, shigru, asafetida, rock salt can be used.
Proper care must be taken that the patient does not bite or swallow his
tongue during this period.
After the attack is over, an attempt should be made to find out its cause.
Treat the main cause. If it is not found, treatment should be directed for
increasing sattva and palliation of vitiated dosha.
1. Vata type-
Herbs of choice are Acorus calamus, gotu kola, shankhapushpi, and
jyotishmati. All these are medhya rasayana herbs to improve the memory.
a) Smruti sagar rasa (RYS) – Prepare mixture of kajjali, haratal, manashila
and tamra oxide. Then triturate it with juice of brahmi and decoction of
vacha. Dose 125 mg. twice a day should be given for 1 month with
sarasvatarishta 15 ml. 3 times a day.
2. Pitta type-
a) Kushmanda ghee- Contains kushmanda and licorice.
b) Paniyakalyanaka ghruta- Contains triphala, haridra, daruharidra,
manjishtha, vidanga and dashamula.
Similarly to improve memory tab. brahmi bati 250 mg. 3 times a day should
be given at least for 3 months.
3. Kapha type-
For removing Kapha, nasal instillation of old medicated ghee prepared by
vacha or brahmi is indicated. The older the ghee, it is more useful in this
disease. Old ghee has penetrating qualities; hence its action produces severe
irritation. This removes Kapha (in the form of mucous secretions) from the
sinuses, head and neck region. Therefore it is advisable that patient should
be informed appropriately about these effects before carrying out this
procedure.
b) Tab.Unmada-gaja-kesari (BR) 250 mg; twice a day or
b) Chaturmukha rasa (BR) with gold 125 mg. twice a day
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He has the honor of being visiting Professor to many Institutes in the United
States like Kerala Ayurveda Academy Seattle, Foster city, Los Angeles;
Wellness center in Baltimore, USA; SEVA academy Munich, Germany;
SKA Ayurveda, Milan, Italy; School of Ayurvedic Culture, Barcelona,
Spain; Body-Mind Health, Zurich, Swiss, Ultimate Health Center, Athens,
Greece, Ayurvedic International Diffusing Association, Japan, Post
Graduate Institute –Buenos Aires in Argentina, Yoga federation in Lisbon,
Portugal and Israeli Center of Ayurveda, Broshim Campus, Tel Aviv and
Shudha Dharma Mandal in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
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Dr. Bhaskar Patil has visited many Institutes like Kerala Ayurveda
Academy, Foster city, USA; Osrodek Pomocy Zdrowiu, Warsaw, Poland.
He has also traveled various countries like USA, Malaysia, UK, Singapore,
Poland, Thailand, for propagation of Ayurveda.
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